Bicycles proved to be big sellers in the Summer months, and some fledgling cyclists may want to test their skills in Winter conditions.

Member of the Highwood Cycling Club Todd Martin is no stranger to cycling in the cold, often commuting up to 30 kilometres via bicycle in the summer, and around half that distance in the winter.

According to Martin, the first thing to look at is the bicycle itself.

He says most mountain bikes and e-bikes are suitable, as opposed to road bikes with smoother tires. He says you may want to consider lowering the pressure on your tires to provide more traction.

Breaks and shifters should be checked and lubricated with a lighter oil better suited for cold temperatures, and cyclists should also regularly check for rocks, salt, and other debris that can accumulate.

Visibility should always be considered, with Martin recommending a light on both the front and back. He says drivers aren't expecting to encounter bicycles in the winter months, so the more visible you are, the better.

You'll want to dress for the weather of course, but Martin says you should consider how much of a workout you're in for.

"If you're going only a couple kilometres and you don't think you're going to sweat you can bundle up a little more, but if you're going more than three, four, five kilometres, you're really going to sweat, and then you're going to get cold. If you don't have anywhere to dry your clothes like if you're riding to work, that's going to be a bit of a challenge."

Martin wears a cycling bib as a base layer with a wind-proof layer on his lower half, with a wool shirt, cycling vest, and thin jacket for his top half.

He also recommends protective gear, including goggles, a helmet, and even elbow and shinpads for beginners.

With all that headgear, Martin says you shouldn't impede your hearing.

"Keep the earbuds out. You need to know when someone's coming up behind you. Even on the bike trails, there's other cyclists on there, and if you're listening to tunes, you guys could be crashing into each other if you're not aware of who's coming up behind you."

For local bike routes and paths, Martin says it's best to avoid roadways due to the initial learning curve for winter cycling.

He says there are some great pathways in the vicinity of the Okotoks Public Library, and he recommends parking nearby rather than cycling there.

Though many members of the Highwood club stick to stationary cycling in the colder months, Martin says you should reach out to them if you're worried about venturing out there alone.

"There's always somebody willing to go out for a rip. If somebody wants to try and just have someone else go with them who has a bit more riding experience, between myself and I'm sure just about anybody else in the club, there'd be someone willing to go if somebody wanted to explore it."

For more information on the Highwood Cycling Club, click here to view their Facebook page.

 

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